Test Drive: Flyin’ Miata’s Latest MX-5

Over the years, we have been invited to drive many different Miatas blessed with various aftermarket suspension setups. Each car is usually accompanied by a similar promise: It drives just as nicely as stock.

Once we’re behind the wheel, however, that excitement tends to quickly turn to disappointment. Maybe the new setup is a little faster, but the clanks, bangs and rubbing just won’t cut it during the daily commute.

During the recent Speedfest at the Classic Motorsports Mitty, the Flyin’ Miata crew handed us the keys—well, technically it was a fob—for their latest MX-5 project, one of the all-new ND-chassis cars fitted with their own suspension setup. It drives just as nicely as the stock version, they promised.

After spending an hour soaking up the twisty roads that surround Road Atlanta, we have to declare their claim true. Despite our attempt to hit every imperfection in the pavement, the car retained its composure. No clanks, no bangs and no rubbing.

5) Would you like your exhaust loud or quiet? The Hush-O-Matic does both: During sane driving, the exhaust gases are routed through the muffler, but when you really crack open the throttle, the muffler is bypassed. An optional electronic control package allows you to toggle between the two modes. MSRP: $615

Miles Wilson wrote:
Andrew, I like the optimistic view that it carries the same marketing mantra as a 60's appliance (see Ice-O-Matic) and the retro but trendy mentality that has been sold to us with the ND MX-5.
After all, Flyin' Miata has a name to live up to! The YouTube review explains it pretty well, but gives no explanation for the quirky name.

You want the explanation? It makes me laugh. I've got an old Cadillac and I love those 50's and 60's retrofuturistic names.

We have a history of fun names at FM - the Ninja Tool, the Voodoo Box, the Big and Little Enchilada Mazdaspeed upgrades, the Happy Meal clutch/flywheel package (with a free clutch alignment tool!), the Little Big Brake Kit and the Fat Boy roll bar.

The roll bar is now available to buy. It's 1" taller than the prototype that was on the car in the picture and doesn't affect seat travel or access to the storage behind the seats. Prices start at $525.Hard Dog roll bar for ND